Last hurdle for next-generation solar cells cleared

The last hurdle that was holding back the commercialization of new generation solar cells, made of a material known as perovskite instead of silicon, has been overcome: now, in addition to being cheaper and more efficient in converting sunlight into electricity, they are also strong and durable, the only feature that was still a problem. The result, published in the journal Science, was obtained by an international group of researchers led by the US University of Toledo and paves the way for a future in which windows and building facades can be integrated with very thin and flexible solar panels, a scenario difficult to achieve with current silicon panels.

Since their discovery in 2009, perovskites, and especially those containing chemical compounds formed from metals, have attracted attention for their unprecedented potential to convert sunlight into electricity. Furthermore, their ingredients are abundant and can be easily combined into thin films with a highly crystalline structure, the same that in the case of silicon is obtained only with expensive processing. Unfortunately, however, these materials deteriorate quickly due to their sensitivity to moisture and heat.

Now, researchers led by Chongwen Li have discovered the key ingredient that, added to perovskite solar cells, increases their strength and durability: it is a molecule called Dppp, which is able to adhere very strongly to the surface of solar cells making them able to withstand environmental conditions for decades. “Continuing to study the potential of perovskite solar cells is a crucial priority for the decarbonization of the world economy,” comments Li. “We are now expanding testing to large solar arrays and preparing for commercialization.”